d41613 23de20 LX Ivm Troubleshooting Guide

ESP-LXIVM Controller
Troubleshooting Guide
For product manuals, instructional videos and FAQs,
please visit: www.rainbird.com/esplxivm
For free professional support for programming and
troubleshooting, please call: 1-866-544-1406
Local Rain Bird Contact Information

Distributor Mgr:
Email:
Phone:
Area Specification Mgr

Public Agency Manager:
Email:
Phone:
Contractor Account Mgr:
Email:
Phone:
Water Conservation Mgr:
Email:
Phone:
Table of
2 ESP-LXIVM Controller Troubleshooting Guide Contents
Contents
Local Rain Bird Contact Information......................................2
Tools...................................................................... 4
Recommended..............................................................................4
Useful................................................................................................5
LX-IVM Compatible Valves.................................. 5
Controller Features.............................................. 6
Front Panel......................................................................................6
2-Wire Settings..............................................................................7
Diagnostics.....................................................................................7
Cabinet Components..................................................................8
Basic Programming............................................. 9
Troubleshooting Flow Charts..............................10
Getting Started............................................................................10
2-Wire Mapping..........................................................................11
No Water Days, No Run Times, ….........................................13
Shorted Paths...............................................................................14
Shorted Path (Manual Method)..........................................15
Duplicate Address......................................................................19
Flow Alarm....................................................................................20
Ping Valve / Sensor (Ping Test)...............................................22
Field Wiring Diagnostics.................................... 23
Tools and Equipment................................................................23
Total System Milliamp Draw...................................................23
Table of
Field Wiring Issues......................................................................23
Broken Wire (Open Circuit) List Not Responding..........24
Short Circuit...............................................................................25
Ground Fault..............................................................................26
Relay Wiring..................................................................................27
IVM Power Filter Connection..................................................29
Controller Diagnostics....................................... 30
IVM Interface Module........................................ 37
LED Indicators..............................................................................37
LED Status.....................................................................................38
Module Status...........................................................................38
2-Wire Path Status....................................................................38
Individual Path Status.............................................................38
Tools
Recommended
• MAXI Cable 2-Wire communications cable.
• Rain Bird WC20 splice kits for ALL electrical wiring connections.
• Rain Bird genuine Wire Stripper
For video showing proper wire splice instructions and other
installation tips, please visit:
www.rainbird.com/esplxivm
B NOTE: If installing or repairing

communications wiring for
IQ Software, do not install
the communications
Rain Bird
cables in the same conduit
Wire Stripper
as the 2-Wire path wiring.
Table of
Useful
• Milliamp Meter
Recommended Model: Armada Pro 93
• As-Built Drawing
If you don’t have it, make it using a cable locator
• LX-IVM Troubleshooting Tools
A list of ESP-LXIVM Controller Troubleshooting Videos
can be found here:
https://www.rainbird.com/esplxivm
LX-IVM Compatible
Milliamp
Valves Meter
Videos for ESP-LXIVM compatible valves ,connecting and troubleshooting
can be found here:
• PGA Series
https://www.rainbird.com/products/pga-series
• PEB Series
https://www.rainbird.com/products/pebpesb-series
• EFB-CP Series
https://www.rainbird.com/products/efb-cp-series
• BPE Series
https://www.rainbird.com/products/300-bpes
B NOTE: Rain Bird HV, DV, and JTV Series residential valves are not
compatible with IVM-SOL. Use only Rain Bird commercial series
valves for ESP-LXIVM installations:
B NOTE: Physical intereference on any valves can be addressed

through “clocking” to avoid being “in-line” with IVM-SOL or
removing the component (e.g. Flow Control).
Table of
Controller Features
Front Panel
PROGRAMMING
DIAL DISPLAY
PROGRAMMING
KEYS
ALARM
LIGHT
LANGUAGE
BACK BUTTON SELECT BUTTON
INFORMATION
BUTTON
PROGRAM
SELECT BUTTON
Table of
2-Wire Settings
Diagnostics
Table of
Cabinet Components
IVM 2-WIRE INTERFACE MODULE
JUNCTION
CONNECTOR
BOX
TRANSFORMER
Table of
Basic Programming
The ESP-LXIVM Controller has 2-Wire Settings to help get you started
and guide you through each step of the installation and hardware
setup process.
It’s most effective to use the 2-Wire Settings in the order they appear in the
2-Wire Settings menu, as follows:
1. Master Valves
2. Weather Sensors (if present)
3. Station Setup
4. Flow Sensors (if present)
Installation, Programming & Operation Guide

For more information see the LX-IVM Field Device Installation Guide that
came with the LX-IVM Controller.
Or download the LX-IVM User Manual at:
Table of
Troubleshooting Flow Charts
Getting Started Is the LX-IVM
front panel
Alarm Light on?
YES NO
Turn the dial to AUTO and

press the Alarm button
What does
the screen
display?
No Water Days
No Run Times Shorted Duplicate Flow Device Not
No Start Times Paths Address Alarm Responding
No PGM will...
More Exit
Go to Go to Go to Go to Go to Go to
page page page page page page
13 14 19 20 22 23
Is the LX-IVM END - Job

YES NO
front panel Well Done!
Call the ESP-LX Alarm Light
SeriesHOTLINE at still on?
+1-866-544-
1406
Table of
2-Wire Mapping
2-Wire Mapping “maps” or records information on the wire-path of any
connected IVM devices. A total of 4 wire paths are available in a LX-IVM
Controller.
B NOTE: While this information is helpful for diagnostics, not doing

2-wire mapping WILL NOT affect irrigation functions. But if 2-wire
mapping is NOT done, it will raise an alarm at the controller.
To initiate 2-wire mapping, follow the steps below:
Turn the Dial to 2-Wire Settings

1. At the Advanced Station Settings screen, press the Down Arrow
key to select 2-Wire Mapping, then press Next.
2. At the 2-Wire Device Mapping screen, press the + and – keys to
set the desired hour (from 0 to 23), then press the Right Arrow
key.
Advanced Station Settings 2-Wire Device Mapping

Cycle & Soak
Inter-Station Delay Start Device Mapping In
SimulStations 00 : 00
Station Sequencing HH:MM
2-Wire Mapping
Next Next
3. Press the + and – keys to set the desired minute (from 1 to 59),
then press Next.
4. At the confirmation screen, press Start to begin Device
Mapping.
B NOTE: All irrigation is disrupted during the mapping process.
2-Wire Device Mapping Attention

Start Device Mapping In Device Mapping will
01 : 05 interrupt all irrigation
HH:MM and could take several
minutes
Next Start
Table of
5. A confirmation screen shows the process is set to run.
Mapping
Mapping will begin
In 1 Hrs and 5
Mins.
Cancel Done
The following pictures show the List Not responding screen without
and with 2-wire mapping done.
Without 2-wire mapping With 2-wire mapping

LIST NOT RESPONDING LIST NOT RESPONDING
AT 01/01/18 12 : 00 PM AT 01/01/18 12 : 00 PM
Type # Path Type # Path
STA 002 --- STA 002 2
STA 004 --- STA 004 2
STA 008 --- STA 008 2
STA 010 --- STA 010 2
Ping Ping
Table of
No Water Days, No Run Times, …
Turn the dial to Date/Time and

ensure time and date are correct
Turn the dial to Start Times,

Run Times and Water Days
and follow programming
directions in the User Manual
Test LX-IVM system using

Manual Watering or Auto
Check the display

for Alarms, see Is the
NO YES END - Job
LX-IVM system
page 10 Well Done!
working?
Troubleshooting
Table of
Shorted Paths
The controller has automatically entered Short Finding

Mode to protect itself against a short on the 2-wire path
Turn the dial to Diagnostics and select

Diagnostics from the menu, then press Next
Press the Down Arrow button to select

Test Shorted Paths, then press Next

the Path (1-4) to test, then press Next
B NOTE: Shorted Path will

display “Fault”.
Press and hold the Yes button

to energize the selected path
Note: Irrigation will be disabled
Trouble Shoot in the Field using a milliamp meter.

A sharp increase in current should be observed
right before the Short Condition in 2-wire Path.
If issue cannot be resolved using the Shorted Paths Test, refer

to the Shorted Path (Manual Method) on the next page.
Next Page
Table of
Shorted Path (Manual Method)
Open the front panel and check

the two indicator lights on the
IVM 2-Wire Interface Module.
The top indicator light should
be green and the bottom
indicator light should be
dark. This indicates that the
controller put the module in
Short Finding Mode
If there are more than one 2-wire paths

connected, disconnect the first 2-wire path
Disconnect the second/

third/fourth 2-wire path
Did the
controller exit Short
NO Finding Mode and are YES
both Indicator Lights
B NOTE: In “looped”
systems, cut the loop in
illuminated?
the middle to create two

independent paths.
Reconnect the Maxi-Cable to verify the

controller goes back into Short Finding Mode
Next Page
Table of
Shorted Path (Manual Method) cont.
Reconnect the Connect all

Maxi-Cable to verify 2-wire paths at
the controller goes NO the controller
back into Short and observe
Finding Mode screen
Walk the length of

the 2-wire path and What does
Repair damaged look for signs of recent the display
Maxi-Cable constructions (trenching, show?
using Maxi new fence, sign, tree, etc.)
Cable and DRB/Y
connectors Go back to
Troubleshooting,
Wires
page 10
damaged, or found
YES repairs of the
Maxi-Cable?
NO
Go to an IVM device approx.

50% the length of the 2-wire B NOTE: Instead of
physically disconnecting
path. Disconnect the IVM device the 2-wire path, you
2-wire splice to disconnect the could instead use
second half of the 2-wire path. a clamp meter. See
page 18.
Next Page
Table of
Check the
controller display to
YES see if it has exited NO
Short Finding
Mode
The problem is downstream The problem is

between this point and the upstream between this
end of the 2-wire path point and the controller
Re-connect the 2-wire path Re-connect the 2-wire path

and go to an IVM device and go to an IVM device
approx. 50% between this approx. 50% between this
point and the end of the point and the controller.
2-wire path. Disconnect the Disconnect the 2-wire splice
2-wire splice to disconnect the to disconnect the second
second half of the 2-wire path. half of the 2-wire path.
B NOTE: Once a small section 2-wire path is identified as having an

issue, use “Energize Path for Testing” and Milliamp Meter to track
for a sharp increase in test current before the location of the short.
For video instructions on Automatic Short

Finding Mode, please visit:
Next Page
Table of
Alternatively you can measure current draw in your system using
Diagnostics/ Diagnostics/Controller Output:
B NOTE: Before measuring the amperage, calculate the approximate

current that the 2-wire path is consuming.
System Amperage Calculation

Quantity of IVM-SOL X 0.67 mA
+ Quantity of IVM-OUT X 0.67 mA
+ Quantity of other IVM-SEN X 6 mA
= Approximate total system amperage in mA
If there is a mismatch, follow a process similar to page 10 to disconnect

50% of devices and redo calculation above. Continue todisconnect 50% of
devices until you identify section of 2-wire Path with issues.
B NOTE: Self-healing: Note that IVM Controller tracks the health

of the 2-wire Path to see if shorts are resolved and then
automatically resumes irrigation. You do not need go back to the
Controller to reset or restart.
For video instructions on Locating a Short

on the Two-Wire Path, please visit:
Table of
Duplicate Address
The controller will Alarm if duplicate
device addresses are entered for one or
more of IVM-SOL, IVM-SEN and IVM-OUT.
Turn the dial to 2-Wire Settings
Press the Down Arrow button to

select Station Setup, then press Next
Use the + and - buttons to cycle through all

the stations. Verify that all 2-wire addresses
are correct and there are no duplicates.
B NOTE: Only the first two

duplicates will be shown,
so you may need to repeat
this process until all of
the duplicates have been
addressed.
Test LX-IVM system using
Manual Run or Auto Run
Check the display

Is the
for Alarms, END - Job
NO LX-IVM system YES
see page 10 Well Done!
working?
Trouble-
shooting
Table of
Flow Alarm
Alarms are issued when flow conditions

exceed your High or Low Flow settings.
CONTINUED
FROM NEXT
PAGE (21)
Turn the dial to Alarms/History
Press the Down Arrow button to

select Flow Alarms, then press Next

Station Flow Alarms, then press Next
Troubleshoot and fix any

station that shows an alarm
Go Back and select FloZone Flow Alarms
Troubleshoot and fix any

FloZone that shows an alarm
Next Page
Table of
Flow Alarms cont.
After fixing any station or FloZone issues,

go Back and select Clear Flow Alarms
Run all zones manually
Check the Alarms screen to see if previous alarm cleared
Alarm is
cleared on END - Job
NO YES
the display Well Done!
GO BACK
TO PREVIOUS
PAGE (20)
Table of
Ping Valve / Sensor (Ping Test)
Assumption: A valve or sensor may not be working
Turn the dial to Diagnostics

Ping Valve/Sensor then press Next
Press the + and - buttons to select the type of device to test

(Station, Master Valve, Flow Sensor, Weather Sensor, etc.)
Press the <> button to select the number

of the device to test, then press Ping
The controller will ping the selected device and

report a voltage reading if the device responds
Interpreting Ping Results

If the device does not respond verify the address and check the wire
splices. The voltage reading is a measurement of the charge of the
device capacitors.
If the voltage is low, wait a minute then ping again.
If the voltage is still low (below 23 volts), disconnect the device
from the 2-wire path and connect directly to an unused wire path at
Controller and repeat Ping Test. If the voltage is fine, the issue is with
2-wire path / splicing. If the voltage is still bad, replace the device.
Table of
Field Wiring Diagnostics
The ESP-LXIVM Controller includes multiple diagnostic functions to help
you determine the cause of a field wiring issue.
Tools and Equipment

• An accurate “as-built” showing wire path and 2-wire device locations,
the number and type of the 2-wire devices on each wire path, and
2-wire addresses
• Filled out LX-IVM Controller Programming Guide with 2-wire
addresses and station/MV/sensor assignments
• A Volt/Ohm Meter (multi-meter) capable of reading 0 to 50 volts AC/
DC and resistance from 0 to 1,000,000 Ohms
• A Clamp Meter for measuring AC current with a precision of 1.0 mA
(milliamp)
• Wire tracing and fault finding equipment
• Spare system components and tools including: spare IVM-SOL, IVM-
SEN device, WC20 Splice Kits and wire strippers
Total System Milliamp Draw

Before troubleshooting a field wiring issue, calculate the expected total
system draw in milliamp (mA). This value can be compared to actual
readings during troubleshooting.
• Each IVM-SOL, IVM-OUT draws 0.67mA
• IVM-SEN draws 6 mA
• Add up the total devices of each type for each wire path and
calculate the wire path mA draw
• Add the mA for each wire path together for the total system mA
draw
Field Wiring Issues

Field wiring issues are typically caused by a broken wire, a short circuit or a
ground fault in the 2-wire path. Refer to the section that best describes the
observed symptoms to troubleshoot.
• Broken Wire (Open Circuit)
• Short Circuit Next Page
• Ground Fault
Table of
B NOTE: A majority of field wiring issues are caused by poor wire
splices. Use only WC20 Splice Kits. All splices should be made in
splice boxes.
B NOTE: If the 2-wire path is Looped, disconnect the loop half way
out before troubleshooting.
Broken Wire (Open Circuit) List Not Responding

If there is a broken wire causing an open circuit in the 2-wire path, you
will notice one or more stations are not running even though they are
programmed to operate. If the system is using flow sensing, you will
receive a low (zero) flow alarm for each disconnected 2-wire station.
Controller Diagnostics
1. Turn the dial to Test All Stations / Check System. Select 2-Wire
Diagnostics.
2. Select the List Not Responding. The results will indicate that
one or more devices have an open circuit and you will be
prompted to Check Wiring. Go to the location of the 2-wire
devices that are not responding and check all wire splices.
2-Wire Path Diagnostics
1. Note the “List Not Responding” displays and corresponding
wire paths. If you notice that all the 2-wire devices that are not
responding are in a single leg of the 2-wire path, the open
circuit exists between the last working 2-wire device and
the first non-working 2-wire device. Check the splices at that
location first. Also look for signs of recent construction/digging
between the working and non-working 2-wire devices.
B NOTE: If 2-Wire mapping is not done, the wire path column will
not include any information.
2. Turn the controller dial to 2-Wire Diagnostics; Select Short

Finding; Turn Short Finding Mode On. Use a Clamp Meter to
measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire path cable conductors at
the last working device and the first non-working device. Note
any discrepancies in the readings. You must know the number
and type of each device downstream to know what the mA
reading up should be reading (see the Total System Milliamp
Draw section for more information).
Table of
Short Circuit
If there is a short circuit (can be caused by crossed red and black wires)
in the 2-wire path, the controller Alarm light will be illuminated and the
alarm will inform you the controller has switched to Short Finding Mode.
You must fix the short circuit before the controller will switch back to
normal irrigation mode.

1. Disconnect each 2-wire path cable one at a time from the
controller IVM 2-Wire Interface Module until the controller exits
Short Finding Mode. Reconnect that 2-wire path cable, and if
the Short Finding Mode returns you know the short is on that
leg of the 2-Wire path.
2. Refer to the as-built to see the location of the 2-wire path. Walk
the route of the 2-wire path cable and check for signs of recent
construction/digging.
3. Find a device location about half-way down the 2-wire path
cable. Disconnect the splices. See if the controller is still in
Short Finding Mode. If the Short Finding Mode has cleared, the
problem is downstream of this location. If the controller is still
in Short Finding Mode, the problem is between this location
and the controller. Keep disconnecting segments of the 2-wire
path until you isolate the problem.
4. Use a Clamp Meter to measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire
path cable conductors at the last working device and the first
non-working device. Note any discrepancy in the readings. You
must know the number and type of each device downstream to
know what the mA reading up should be reading (see the Total
System Milliamp Draw section for more information).
5. The problem may be caused by a device that was damaged by
a lightning power surge. The controller will exit Short Finding
Mode when the damaged device is disconnected from the
2-wire path.
Table of
Ground Fault
A ground (earth) fault can be caused when a 2-wire path conductor
is leaking to ground, possibly due to a bad wire splice, or a nicked or
damaged cable. This issue may come and go depending on the soil
moisture level. When the soil is very wet the problem will be worse than
when the soil is dry.
1. Turn dial to Diagnostics / Diagnostics / Control Output.
2. Select Controller. Note the Milliamp (mA) reading. The mA
reading will be higher than normal when current is leaking
to ground. You must know the number and type of each
device in the system to know what the mA reading should be
reading (see the Total System Milliamp Draw section for more
information).
3. Disconnect each 2-wire path cable one at a time from the
controller IVM 2-Wire Interface Module. Recheck the Control
Output to isolate which segment of the 2-wire path has the
ground fault.
4. Find a device location about half-way down the 2-wire path
cable. Disconnect the splices.
5. Check the Control Output to see if the ground fault has been
isolated. If the Control Output is normal, the problem is
downstream of this location. If the Control Output still shows
the ground fault, the problem is between this location and the
controller. Keep disconnecting segments of the 2-wire path
until you isolate the problem.
1. Turn the controller dial to Diagnostics / Diagnostics / Test
Shorted Path.
2. Use a Clamp Meter to measure the Amp Draw of the 2-wire
path cable conductors at various splice locations. Note any
discrepancy in the readings. You must know the number and
type of each device downstream to know what the mA reading
up should be reading (see the Total System Milliamp Draw
section for more information).
Table of
Relay Wiring
For valves without compatible latching solenoids.
IVM-SOL device can be used to connect any Rain Bird Commercial Valve
to the LX-IVM Controller. For Non-Rain Bird Valve, use IVM-OUT device in
conjunction with a compatible DC latching solenoid to connect to a LX-IVM
controller. In the event, a compatible DC latching solenoid is not available,
you can use the Rain Bird Pump Start Relay with following modifications to
power the AC Solenoid.
1. Connect 110V relay to the + or - 24VAC terminals at the
controller’s IVM 2-wire Interface Module.
B NOTE: Do not connect 2-wire path to the 110V relay terminals.
2. Unplug PSR relay coil wires and output to AC Solenoid.
B NOTE: Feed the solenoid wires through bottom of the PSR

enclosure.
Table of
3. Connect the red and white IVM-OUT wire to the red wire of the
DC Latching Relay. Connect the black and white IVM-OUT wire to
the black wire of the DC Latching Relay.
4. Connect the red IVM-OUT wire to the red wire on the 2-Wire
path. Then connect the black IVM-OUT wire to the black wire on
the 2-Wire path.
Input Power
from 24VAC
Out Terminal
at Controller
AC Solenoid
Model Nos.
PSR110-IVM
and PSR220-IVM
IVM-OUT
D
C
Allow 3 ft. (1 m) AC Solenoid

Extra Cable
Length
Table of
IVM Power Filter Connection
Electrical Noise in the input power can cause undesirable behavior of the
LXIVM Controllers. Sources of Electrical Noise include VFD Pump and other
Electrical Equipment.
Rain Bird recommends the GSP-IVM Filter to filter the noise from the input
power and ensure normal operation of the Controller. Symptoms can include
inconsistent operation of the stations (stations not running as programmed)
and inability read flow from a compatible flow sensor.
Rain Bird recommends the following modification to the controller to “filter
out” the noise and ensuring normal operations of the Controller.
Choke: Schaffner
P/N: RD5122-6-9M6
Terminal Block
on LX-IVM
(24VAC IN)
ORANGE
YELLOW
BLUE
ORANGE
YELLOW BROWN
GROUND
GREEN or GREEN YEL.
(not connected)
LX-IVM Transformer
(26.5VAC Out) Capacitor, Kemet P/N:
C274ACF5100SA0J
B NOTE: IVM Filter Kit can be sourced from Rain Bird GSP via the
online services store (link below).
https://servicesstore.rainbird.com/ivm-filter.html
Table of
Use this table to troubleshoot issues using the built-in diagnostic features
of the ESP-LXIVM controller.
Category Issue Potential Cause Solution
Controller Red alarm The controller is Turn dial to Auto, press the Alarm button,
Alarms light on the reporting an alarm review the alarm conditions, and address
controller condition. the issue(s).
front panel is
illuminated.
Controller The IVM 2-Wire Check the upper status light on the IVM
alarm; No Interface Module 2-Wire Interface Module. It should be solid
2-Wire Module. is not properly green if it is properly connected to the
attached to the controller. Remove and reinstall the module
controller module making sure it is fully seated in the module
slots. slots.
Controller Someone has Turn dial to Off, press the 2-Wire Path button,
alarm; 2-Wire manually turned the and turn the 2-wire path On.
path Off. 2-wire path Off.
Controller Duplicate Device Note the duplicate Device Addresses posted

alarm; addresses have been in the alarm screen, verify and enter the
Duplicate entered. correct Device addresses.
Device Address.
Controller 2-wire path is Disconnect the 2-wire cables from the IVM
alarm; Short shorted and the 2-Wire Interface Module one at a time until
Finding Mode. controller has the alarm condition clears. The lower left
automatically status light on the controller will alternate
switched to the between red and green when the wire path
Short Finding Mode. with the short is removed.
The lower left
status light on the Trace the path of this 2-wire cable and look
controller is dark. for source of issue (disturbed soil, new tree or
fence post, etc).
Disconnect the 2-wire cable halfway between

the controller and end of cable and check to
see if the alarm clears to help identify short
location on the cable.
Use a volt/ohm and clamp meter to identify

which devices are receiving power.
Fix the short and check that the alarm is

cleared.
Controller Device addresses Turn dial to 2-Wire Settings / Station Setup.

alarm; No have not been Enter the address (see label on each Device)
Device entered for any for each station. Addresses are also required
Addresses. stations. for Master Valves, Weather Sensors and Flow
Sensor.
Table of
Controller Controller The Learn Flow Turn dial to Flow Sensor / Set Flow Rates /
Alarms alarm; Zero Utility has recorded View Flow Rates / View Station Rates. Check for
Learned a zero (0) flow rate stations that have a 0 flow rate and are labeled
Flow. for one or more Learned.
station.
• If all stations have learned a 0 flow check flow
sensor/ input connections, Flow Sensor config-
uration, FloZone assignments, etc.
• If only one or a few stations have learned a

0 flow rate check the valve operation (flow
control stem position, solenoid, wiring, etc.).
• If just small flow rate valves/stations (like drip

zones) have learned a 0 flow rate the flow
sensor may be too large for the lower flow
rates. Check the product technical specs for the
minimum flow rate of the flow sensor.
Controller FloWatch (flow Turn dial to Alarms / History / Flow Alarms,

alarm; Flow sensing utility) has and review the posted Station and/or FloZone
Alarm. detected a high or (mainline) flow alarms. Note the station(s) or
low flow condition. FloZone(s) that were identified. If you configured
FloWatch to Diagnose & Eliminate or Alarm &
Shut Down, the problem station(s) or FloZone(s)
will be quarantined. Clear the Flow Alarms and
test the system.
• Station flow alarms – Manually turn on the

station. Turn dial to Flow Sensor / View Current
Flow. The current and expected flow rates
will be listed. Check the valve & sprinklers to
identify the issue and correct it. If sprinklers or
nozzles have been replaced, relearn the station
flow rate.
• FloZone alarms - Manually start a program.

Turn dial to Flow Sensor, View Current Flow. The
current and expected flow rates will be listed.
Check the water source(s) and mainline to
identify the issues and correct it.
• If FloZone high flow alarms are being triggered

by manual watering (QCV, manually bleeding
valves, etc.) consider using the MV Water
Window located under the Manual Watering
dial position. Configure window open and
close times, days of the week, MV(s) you want
open, and the
expected additional flow rate to allow for the
manual watering.
Table of
Controller Controller alarm; A non-compatible Remove any recently added modules, one at a
Alarms Invalid Module module has been time, until the alarm condition clears.
Config. inserted into one
of the controller
module slots. • ESP-LXME/-LXMEF Controller 4-, 8-, &
12-Station Modules, FSM Flow Smart
Modules, M50 and SM75 Modules are not
compatible.
Controller alarm; Incomplete Turn dial to Diagnostics / Confirm Programs
No PGM will Auto programming. / Program Summary. Missing programming
Run. parameters are identified by an N. For
programs to automatically run you need to
program Start Days, Start Times, and Station
Run Times.
Controller No primary power Check the power input to the controller
Alarm; No to the controller transformer. The display is being powered by
Power – Irrigation transformer the 9v backup battery.
Functions are
Disabled. Front panel Check both ends of the ribbon cable to make
ribbon cable is sure it is firmly connected to the backplane
disconnected and front panel.
2-Wire Path Communication 2-wire cable Turn dial to Diagnostics / Control Output. The
Issues with 2-wire or splices are controller voltage output and 2-wire path
devices is leaking to ground milliamp draw will be displayed.
intermittent. or between
conductors. • If there are no issues you will see Current
Limit OK, Current Overload OK.
• If the 2-wire cable leaks are drawing a high
amount of current you will see Current
Limit Not OK, Current Overload OK. Use the
troubleshooting tips above to find and fix
the 2-wire cable/splice issues.
• If the 2-wire cable leaks are drawing a high
amount of current you will see Current
Limit Not OK, Current Overload Not OK.
The controller will have automatically
switched to Fault Finding Mode. Use the
troubleshooting tips above to find and fix
the 2-wire cable/splice issues.
Controller loses Communication • Single-jacketed cable and/or incorrect
connection to signal and power wires splices were used. When incorrect
2-wire devices leaks to ground. cable/splices become submerged it can
after a heavy create leakage to ground. Double- jacketed
irrigation or 14-2UF Maxi 2-Wire Cable and WC20 Splice
rainfall event. Kits are required.
Table of
Category Issue Potential Solution
Cause
IVM-SEN/ The controller Sensor wiring Many sensor including flow sensors require wires
Sensor is not getting polarity is to be connected with correct polarity (+ / -). If
data from reversed. the sensor has colored or labeled wires, connect
a flow or as follows:
weather • Sensor red (+) wire to the IVM-SEN Sensor
sensor red wire.
connected to • Sensor black (-) wire to the IVM-SEN Sensor
a IVM-SEN/ black wire.
Sensor on the
2-wire path. Flow sensor The LX-IVM Controller requires a minimum input
output pulse rate of 2 pulses per 10 seconds for the smallest station
is not compatible flow rate. Pulse rates of less than 2 pulses per
with the LX-IVM 10 seconds will not be registered. Change to a
Controller. compatible flow sensor.
Weather sensor The LX-IVM Controller is not compatible with 4-20

type is not mA or 0-5V weather sensors (discrete switched
compatible. sensors only).
Programs Programs Multiple start Turn dial to Diagnostics / Confirm Programs /

are running times have been Review Program. Review each program using the
at random programmed Program Button to select the program. Check for
times. unintentionally. multiple start times on an individual program. In
some cases users’ mix-up start times and stations
and can inadvertently program the system to
start multiple times per day.
Water Windows Turn dial to Delay Watering / Water Window. Use

have been the Programs Button to select a program 1 - 40.
configured so Water Windows control the hours of the day
programs are a program is allowed to operate. If a program
paused and starts outside a Water Window it is paused until
resume later. the window opens. If the program is still running
when the Water Window closes the program is
paused and will automatically start the next time
the window opens. Adjust the Water Window
open and close times to allow the program to
complete.
Station Stations are Station The LX-IVM offers 2 station sequencing modes:
Sequencing not running Sequencing set • Sequence by Station Numbers (default) – Sta-
in station to Sequence by tion selection criteria: a) Non-Irrigation Priority;
number Station Priority b) Station number low to high; c) Program
sequence assignment 1 - 40.
• Sequence by Station Priority (automatically
used if FloManager is On) – Station selection
criteria: a) Station Priority Non-Irrigation, High,
Medium, Low; b) Station Run Time longest
to shortest; c) Station number low to high; d)
Program Assignment 1 - 40.
To change Station Sequencing mode turn dial to
2-Wire Settings / Advanced / Station Sequencing.
Use the +/- softkeys to change the selection.
Table of
Valve is manually Turn dial to Manual Watering / Start Station. Select

closed or solenoid the station making sure it has a run time and press
is damaged. run. Check to see if the valve is operating and if it
isn’t, address the valve issue.
A station
Station
valve is not
Valves Station does not Turn dial to Diagnostics / Confirm Program / Station
operating.
have run time for a Run Time. Note which programs the station has run
program with start times programmed. Use Program Summary to make
days and a start sure that program has start days and start times.
time.
IVM-SOL or valve Turn dial to Diagnostics / Diagnostics / Ping List not

wires are not Responding. If the ping test fails check the device
spliced correctly. and valve wire splices and repeat the ping test.
Incorrect address. Check the address of the station (label on the IVM
device that is connected to the valve) and verify
the address is entered correctly. Turn dial to 2-wire
Setting / Station Setup to access Station Address.
Incorrect Valve Turn Dial to 2-wire Setting / Station Setup / Valve

A station Type Types. Valve types configure the decoder inrush
Station
valve is not amps and duration for opening a valve solenoid.
Valves
operating. The LX-IVM Valve Types are preconfigured for
Rain Bird commercial valve models. Information
for configuring Valve Types to work with other
valves can be found in the controller manual. Note:
Rain Bird residential valves (DV, JTV, HV) are not
compatible with the LX-IVM system or IVM-SOL.
2-wire path from Ping other valves on the same 2-wire path leg.
the controller is If these pings are also unsuccessful, check for an
not connected to open wire connections on the 2-wire path.
this area.
MV is assigned to Turn dial to 2-Wire Settings / Master Valves. Press

a different FloZone Next to advance to FloZone (FZ) Setup screen. MV
than the stations. needs to be assigned to the same FloZone as the
stations that receive water from this water source.
MV is Normally If the MV valve is Normally Open (powered to close)

Open but has been it needs to be configured as Normally Open. Turn
The Master configured as a dial to 2Wire Settings / MV Setup. Change MV from
Valve will not Normally Closed Normally Closed (default) to Normally Open.
Master
open when MV.
Valves
stations are
operating. Station not Go to 2-Wire Settings / Station Setup to make sure
configured to open the station is configured as requiring a Master
Master Valve. Valve.
MV Address is Check the address of the MV (label on the IVM

incorrect. device that is connected to the MV) and verify the
address is entered correctly. Turn dial to Setup
Wizards / Master Valves to access MV Address.
Table of
Master The Master 2-wire device or Turn dial to Diagnostics / Diagnostics / Select
Valves Valve will not valve wires are not Ping MV and ping the MV address. If the ping
open when spliced correctly. test fails
stations are
operating. check the decoder and valve wire splices and
repeat the ping test.
IVM-Device is not Turn dial to Diagnostics / Diagnostics / Ping
functioning or Valve or Sensor, then ping the MV address. If the
damaged. ping test fails swap the device, enter the new
address and repeat the ping test.
IVM 2-Wire No output Fuses in the module Find the source of the short or power
Interface from the have blown due to connected to the 2-wire path and address
Module module. short or secondary the problem. A replacement 2-wire Module is
power connected to available for purchase.
the 2-wire path.
Module is in Find the source of the short or power
Automatic Short connected to the 2-wire path and address
Finding Mode due to the problem.
short or secondary
power connected to
the 2-wire path.
Pump Start The controller Amp draw of the Use a Rain Bird PSR-Series Pump Start Relay
Relays cannot close pump start relay that incorporates an ice-cube relay, double
the pump is more than the relay system. You can also add an ice-cube
start relay that Device can provide. relay to the existing pump start relay. Contact
is connected Rain Bird Technical Services or Global Support
to a IVM-OUT. Plan for relay model and wiring diagram.
Controller The controller The display contrast Turn dial to Off, press Contrast +/- buttons to
LCD Display display is either needs to be adjust display contrast.
too light or too adjusted.
dark.
Controller Controller LCD Plug in a 9V battery into the battery slot
display is display is damaged. on the back of the controller front panel. If
blank. information is now visible on the display it
is not damaged and working correctly. See
other potential causes. If no information is
displayed, remove the 2-wire module. If the
alarm light on the front panel turns on after 1
minute but no information is in the display, the
LCD is damaged and the front panel should
be replaced. A replacement panel is available
for purchase.
Primary power to This can be verified by checking the status
the controller has lights on the 2-wire module. If both status
been lost or turned lights on the module are dark the primary
off. power is likely off. Find primary power source
to the controller and turn it on. If the power
breaker is tripped or fuse is blown, find source
of problem, fix the issue, and turn the power
back on.
Controller ribbon Check to make sure the ribbon cable is securely
cable is not connected to both the controller backplane and
connected or the front panel. If the cable has broken wires or
damaged. connectors, replace it.
Table of
Category Issue Potential Solution
Cause
Simul Too many LX-IVM Turn dial to 2-wire Setting / Advanced /

Stations or too few (Controller) SimulStations. Select LX-IVM SimulStations
(Simul- stations are SimulStations and adjust the maximum number of
taneous operating are configured simultaneous irrigation stations you want to
Station simultaneously incorrectly. allow to operate across all programs at any
Operation) when time. Non- Irrigation SimulStations control
program(s) stations with Non-Irr Priority.
operate.
PGM (Program) Turn dial to 2-wire Setting / Advanced
SimulStations SimulStations. Select PGM SimulStations
are configured and adjust the maximum number of
incorrectly. simultaneous irrigation stations you want
to allow to operate simultaneously within
the currently selected program. Move
the Program Button to select the other
programs 1 - 40.
Weather Weather This is by Manual station, program or test program

Sensors sensor is not design. operation (from the front panel or a remote)
preventing is allowed regardless of the weather sensor
controller state. To see the current state of a weather
manual sensor, turn the dial to Weather Sensors. The
operation. status of each sensor is displayed.
Wireless Sensor receiver The IVM 2-Wire Interface Module includes

weather is not wired to 4 terminals for wireless weather sensor
sensor is not the controller connections. Wiring connections should be
providing module made as follows:
input to the correctly. • Sensor receiver power wires to + and –
controller. terminals.
• Sensor receiver sensor wires to Sen and
C terminals.
Controller I am having Unlike knock- Prior to installing the cabinet, place on a flat
Knock- trouble outs on a metal surface with the knock-out facing up. Locate
outs removing the enclosure, the dimple in the center of the knock-out
knock-outs these plastic you wish to remove. Place the tip of a large
on the knock-outs are Phillips screwdriver in the dimple. Use a
ESP-LX Series designed to be rubber or wooden mallet to firmly strike
Controller removed by the top of the screwdriver. The knock-out
plastic cabinet. applying force should pop out in a single piece. If it breaks,
to the center at use pliers to remove the pieces. Do not use a
the dimple. flat-bladed screwdriver around the outside
of the knock-out as this could crack the case.
Table of
IVM Interface Module
This section explains the LED Status indicators on the IVM 2-Wire Interface
Module.
LED Indicators
MODULE STATUS
2-WIRE PATH
STATUS
1 2 3 4
INDIVIDUAL PATHS
Table of
LED Status
Module Status
Module State Description LED Light
POWER OFF Power off or module is held in reset. Dark
POWER UP During initial power up or after reset Briefly lights GREEN

to indicate power
applied
ENUMERATION or ERROR Waiting for enumeration. Flashing RED
CONFIGURATION After enumeration, while receiving Flashing ORANGE

device addresses and configuration from
the front panel
NORMAL After configuration download is Solid GREEN

complete (from front panel and setting
all IVM-SEN to either flow or weather).
This is the Normal up and running state.
SHORT ADDRESS During the Normal state, there are Flashing GREEN
CONFIGURATION devices in the field that have not yet
been programmed with short addresses.
All other normal communication to field
devices still function while in this state.
2-Wire Path Status

2-wire ON Normal state with 2-Wire path powered Blinking GREEN

on.
2-wire OFF 2-Wire path powered down. Dark
Individual Path Status

Individual path enabled Path connected (2-Wire path may be Solid GREEN
on or off).
Individual path disabled Path disconnected (2-wire path may be Solid RED
on or off).
Table of
Rain Bird Corporation
6991 E. Southpoint Road
Tucson, AZ 85756
Phone: (520) 741-6100
Questions?
Call the Rain Bird Professional Support Line at
+1-866-544-1406
or else visit our web site at
www.rainbird.com/esplxseries
Rain Bird Rewards:

www.rainbird.com/rewards
Phone - 1-888-370-1814
Global Service Plan:

www.rainbird.com/gsp
Phone: 866-GSP-XPRT (477-9778)
JRegistered trademark of Rain Bird Corporation

I2020 Rain Bird Corporation 23DE20

d41613 23de20 LX Ivm Troubleshooting Guide

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ESP-LXIVM Controller

Local Rain Bird Contact Information

Area Specification Mgr

Contractor Account Mgr:

Water Conservation Mgr:

B NOTE: If installing or repairing

B NOTE: Physical intereference on any valves can be addressed

IVM 2-WIRE INTERFACE MODULE

Installation, Programming & Operation Guide

Turn the dial to AUTO and

Is the LX-IVM END - Job

B NOTE: While this information is helpful for diagnostics, not doing

To initiate 2-wire mapping, follow the steps below:

Turn the Dial to 2-Wire Settings

Advanced Station Settings 2-Wire Device Mapping

B NOTE: All irrigation is disrupted during the mapping process.

2-Wire Device Mapping Attention

Without 2-wire mapping With 2-wire mapping

Turn the dial to Date/Time and

Turn the dial to Start Times,

Test LX-IVM system using

Check the display

The controller has automatically entered Short Finding

Turn the dial to Diagnostics and select

Press the Down Arrow button to select

Press the Down Arrow button to select

B NOTE: Shorted Path will

Press and hold the Yes button

Trouble Shoot in the Field using a milliamp meter.

If issue cannot be resolved using the Shorted Paths Test, refer

Open the front panel and check

If there are more than one 2-wire paths

Disconnect the second/

the middle to create two

Reconnect the Maxi-Cable to verify the

Reconnect the Connect all

Walk the length of

Go to an IVM device approx.

The problem is downstream The problem is

Re-connect the 2-wire path Re-connect the 2-wire path

B NOTE: Once a small section 2-wire path is identified as having an

For video instructions on Automatic Short

B NOTE: Before measuring the amperage, calculate the approximate

System Amperage Calculation

= Approximate total system amperage in mA

If there is a mismatch, follow a process similar to page 10 to disconnect

B NOTE: Self-healing: Note that IVM Controller tracks the health

For video instructions on Locating a Short

Turn the dial to 2-Wire Settings

Press the Down Arrow button to

Use the + and - buttons to cycle through all

B NOTE: Only the first two

Check the display

Alarms are issued when flow conditions

Press the Down Arrow button to

Press the Down Arrow button to select

Troubleshoot and fix any

Go Back and select FloZone Flow Alarms

Troubleshoot and fix any

After fixing any station or FloZone issues,

Run all zones manually

Check the Alarms screen to see if previous alarm cleared

Turn the dial to Diagnostics